If an individual or group wishes to engage in an activity that is not specifically addressed in the access area rules, they can apply for a special use permit requesting permission to conduct that activity. Requests should be made to the department at least 30 days in advance.

Where can I find out about speed or horse power restrictions on a specific water body?

The Department of Environmental Conservation, Watershed Management Division adopts rules regulating, among other things, the use of public waters and lake levels. You can view all public waters rules, which help protect normal uses on all lakes, ponds, and reservoirs.

What are universal shore fishing platforms?

Universal shore fishing platforms are designed to provide shore fishing access to anglers of all ages and those with physical limitations. Additionally, all new docks will be complaint with the 2010 ADA standards for recreational boating facilities. You can find universal access areas using our advanced access area search.

Who pays for the access areas?

Funding for the access areas comes from both state and federal sources in a user-pay system. Fishing license revenues and motorboat registration fees are used to leverage federal money from the US Fish and Wildlife Service.

The federal funds are generated through an excise tax on fishing tackle or a motorboat fuel tax. The US Fish and Wildlife Service will pay for up to 75 percent of eligible boat access expenditures.

Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department maintains more than 185 access areas that are either owned or leased by the department. The access area program uses contracted vendors and the Department of Corrections Community Restitution Program to maintain individual areas.

Who do I contact if there is a problem at an access area?

You can contact your local warden if there is a legal issue or fish and wildlife violation, or the department headquarters in Montpelier (802-828-1000 / fwinformation@vermont.gov) if it is a facility or operation problem.

Does the department have any marinas or mooring facilities?

No, but there are numerous marinas nearby department access areas and the Department of Forest, Parks, and Recreation has a marina at Burton Island State Park.